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If you’re shopping for an electric car and you want something luxurious with some performance packed into it, there are a couple of good choices. Two good rivals in the segment that are worth a look are the 2022 BMW i4 and the Tesla Model 3. Both of these vehicles offer entry-level luxury with a good kick in the performance department at relatively low price points. If you find yourself shopping between the two, here are four advantages the BMW i4 has over the Tesla Model 3.

1. The 2022 BMW i4 has a more distinct look than the Tesla Model 3

A front corner view of the 2022 BMW i4 M50
A front corner view of the 2022 BMW i4 M50. | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

Considering Tesla models have been around for over a decade, it’s safe to say that we have all gotten used to how they look. For instance, the Model 3’s design is sleek and simple, which is appealing to many buyers in and out of the market. But if you like to stand out, then the 2022 BMW i4 has you covered.

With its sharp angle, bolder curves, and giant front grille nostrils, it’s clear that the BMW has a far more distinct look than the Model 3. Some buyers may love it, others may hate it. But if you don’t want to look like another cookie-cutter electric car driver, then the i4’s looks could be for you.

2. The base BMW i4 is quicker than the base Model 3

The front motor in the 2022 BMW i4
The front motor in the 2022 BMW i4 M50. | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

Remember that performance we talked about? If you look at the higher trim levels on the BMW i4 and the Model 3, you’ll find that the Model 3 Performance beats the i4 M50 with its 0-60 mph of 3.1 seconds. However, if you compare the base Model 3 to the base i4, there’s a difference in performance.

According to  Inside EVs, the base Model 3 can sprint to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, while the entry-level i4 can cover the same distance in 5.7 seconds. It’s not a huge difference, but any performance gain is a good thing when it comes to electric cars.

3. There is still a $7,500 tax credit on the BMW i4

A rear view of the 2022 BMW i4 M50 with the trunk open.
A rear view of the 2022 BMW i4 M50 with the trunk open. | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

One unfortunate aspect of buying a Tesla is that the $7,500 federal tax credit is no longer available for any of the models. If look at Tesla’s site, it instead tells you how much you can save when it comes to potential fuel savings and other incentives. However, if you opt for the BMW i4 instead, you can still be eligible for the $7,500 tax credit, which helps offset the car’s higher price than the Tesla.

4. The BMW i4 has a more robust interior

The brown interior in the 2022 BMW i4 M50.
The brown interior in the 2022 BMW i4 M50. | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

There’s no denying that the Tesla Model 3’s interior is sleek and simplistic, like an Apple iPhone. But not everyone wants that type of sterility in their car. In that case, the BMW i4 offers a far more robust interior design that’s elegant and well-crafted. There are buttons within easy reach, and we like the car’s more versatile hatchback design.

2022 BMW i4 versus Tesla Model 3

When it comes to entry-level electric cars that exude performance and luxury, there are no two better choices than the 2022 BMW i4 and Tesla Model 3. There’s plenty to love about the Tesla Model 3. However, these four advantages could make the BMW i4 a better choice in the end.

RELATED: 2022 BMW i4 M50 Review: A Shockingly Capable Canyon Cruiser

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